Ladderback Chippendale side chair c. 19th century

This ladderback Chippendale side chair was made by an anonymous artist in the 18th century. Its design reflects the fusion of British and American styles. The chair is made of dark-stained wood with a woven seat. Its straight lines and simple design reflect the functional aesthetic of the time, but the curved details on the 'ladder' back showcase the influence of the Chippendale style. Chairs like this provide insight into the homes of early Americans and their sense of taste. They also show a society which was influenced by the rise of merchant capitalism and international trade. Historians rely on primary sources, such as probate inventories, trade records, and design books to reconstruct the cultural and economic context in which the chair was made and used. By studying the social and institutional history of such objects, we can better understand their meaning and significance.